Tafsir of Fatir 35:6

Surah Fatir (Verse 6)

"Indeed, Satan is an enemy to you; so take him as an enemy."

When Allah (Exalted is He) said, {And let not the deceiver deceive you concerning Allah}, He then mentioned what prevents the rational person from being deceived. He said: {Indeed, Satan is an enemy to you, so take him as an enemy}. This means: Do not listen to his words. And His statement, {so take him as an enemy} means: Act in a way that displeases him, which is performing righteous deeds.

Then Allah (Exalted is He) said: {He only invites his party to be among the companions of the Blaze}. This points to a subtle meaning: When a person has an enemy, there are two ways to deal with him:

1. To show enmity in retaliation for his enmity.
2. To remove the enmity by pleasing him.

Since Allah (Exalted is He) said, {Indeed, Satan is an enemy to you}, He commanded enmity towards him and indicated that this is the only path. As for the other path—seeking his satisfaction—it yields no benefit, because if you appease him and follow him, he will only lead you to the Blaze (Hellfire).

Know that whoever realizes he has an inescapable enemy and is certain of this fact, he will stand firm against him, patiently engaging in fighting him, and patience brings victory. Similarly, a person cannot escape Satan, for he follows him constantly. He will not cease following until the person stands up to him and defeats him. The defeat of Satan comes through the resolve of the human being. Therefore, the path is steadfastness upon the straight way and reliance upon worship.

Then Allah (Exalted is He) clarified the state of Satan's party and the party of Allah. He said:

{Those who disbelieve—for them is a severe punishment. And those who believe and do righteous deeds—for them is forgiveness and a great reward.}